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Posts for tag: Dry Skin

Despite the fact that spring isn’t too far behind, we still have to put up with snow, cold temperatures and freezing winds. These winter elements can wreak havoc on our skin, causing it to become dry, chapped and red. If you are one of those people who are currently trying to find some way to alleviate their dry skin, then you’ve come to the right place. Find out the best moisturizer to help your chapped, cracked skin, and how to prevent this problem from happening to you next winter.

The Right Moisturizer for You

It can be difficult to choose the right product for your skin. After all, not all skin was created equally and there is often some trial and error when it comes to choosing the most effective moisturizer. So what kind of lotion should you look for? If you have sensitive skin, seek out a soothing, creamy moisturizer containing ceramide, which is gentle enough for delicate skin.

If you don’t have sensitive skin but you are suffering from severe dryness, then you’ll want to look for a richer moisturizer that contains urea, beeswax, or petroleum jelly, which help to lock in moisture and offer the skin a protective barrier against the drying elements.

Also, keep in mind that the skin on your face is different than the skin on your body so you’ll want to choose a different moisturizer for both. When it comes to choosing a moisturizer for your face look for a bottle that says that it’s noncomedogenic, which means that it won’t clog your pores and leave you prone to breakouts. Also opt for a moisturizer that acts as a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. This will also act as a protective shield against sun, wind, and cold.

Apply Your Moisturizer

How you apply your moisturizer is often just as important to choosing the proper moisturizer. We recommend applying a generous amount of moisturizer right after you step out of the shower and pat yourself partially dry. You want to apply your moisturizing cream to your skin while it’s still a bit moist to help your skin absorb more water.

If your skin needs some serious moisturizing then you may want to consider applying the cream before bedtime and then wearing breathable gloves or socks over the hands and feet overnight to offer a deeper moisturizing experience.

Don’t let dry skin drive you crazy. If you haven’t found a lotion that helps combat your dry skin, then it’s time to talk to your dermatologist today to find out what products are right for you. Call us to schedule an appointment and lets nip your dry skin in the bud.

Chapped skin can happen at any time of the year, from the warmest climate to the coldest. Whether it’s harsh chemical soaps, cold temperatures, or over­exposure to the sun, chapped hands are painful and inconvenient in any season.

What is to blame for this nasty problem? Unfortunately it has to do with a loss of moisture. Just washing your hands multiple times throughout the day can cause hands to peel and bleed. However, once you recognize your issue, then you can do something about it. Find out the best ways to care for your chapped hands to prevent this issue in the future.

Moisturize

If you want your skin to return to its once supple state, then you’re going to want to put back the moisture that you’ve robbed your skin of. Sadly, just drinking water just won’t cut it, although it is helpful. You must apply a moisturizer directly to your skin to combat this problem.

The best way to prevent chapped hands is to start a moisturizing regime even before your hands start to feel dry. This way it’s already a normal habit in your daily routine, and you can keep your hands from drying out.

Some people are dealing with such deep cracks and bleeding that a light moisturizer isn’t going to do the trick. In this case, using a thicker product can be very effective, such as petroleum jelly or a rich moisturizer that contains cocoa butter or beeswax as an ingredient. For an even deeper moisturizing experience, trying putting this product on at night, and then wearing cotton gloves to bed.

Washing hands

It’s vital to wash our hands, and no one is recommending giving up this healthy habit. It can, however, wreak havoc on your hands! It’s important to follow these steps when washing:

Use a mild soap

Avoid using hot water

Pat rather than rub your skin dry

Apply a moisturizer right away

While handwashing can be drying, hand sanitizer gels are even harsher on your skin. Try to avoid their use unless absolutely necessary, opting instead for a gentle wash.

If you are dealing with severely chapped hands and you can’t seem to find relief from your symptoms, then it might be time to see your dermatologist for treatment. Call us today!

Cold winds, low temperatures and dry indoor conditions can strip the skin of its natural oils that serve as a natural moisturizer. Although the cold winter months often cause dry skin, with proper skin care habits you can have a healthy complexion that lasts all season long.

You can’t control the harsh winter climate, but you can protect your skin by learning how to manage the factors that trigger dry, flaky skin.

How Can I Protect My Skin from Dryness

For starters, apply a heavy moisturizer or cream daily to help retain moisture and keep skin from drying out. Since strong, brisk winds can cause chapped skin, it is also important to cover exposed areas by wearing a hat, scarf or mittens when going out into the cold air.

Furnaces, radiators and fireplaces that you use to heat your home during cold winter months may feel wonderful in the middle of winter, but they can be extremely drying. To add moisture back into your home, try using a humidifier. Frequent showering and hand washing can also dry out your skin. Keep skin moist with lotion or cream immediately after you shower and wash your hands to seal in moisture.

No matter what season you’re in, if your dry skin becomes inflamed or develops a painful itch, visit our practice for a proper evaluation and treatment plan. A dermatologist can help you modify your current skin regimen accordingly to help your skin stay healthy with the changing seasons.

Skin care should be an important part of your daily hygiene. This should include cleansing the face daily, moisturizing, applying sunscreen and avoiding harsh products. A good skin care routine starts with understanding the unique needs of your skin type. In many cases, skin can be classified into four different categories: normal, dry, oily and combination.

To determine your type of skin, try this simple test:

Wash your face and gently pat it dry.

Wait approximately 15 minutes and then press lens-cleaning tissue paper on different areas of your face.

If the paper sticks or picks up oil on all parts of your skin, then you have oily skin.

If the paper does not stick on any part of your face, then you have dry skin.

If the paper only sticks to your chin, nose and forehead, then you have normal or combination skin.

Normal Skin Types
The ideal skin type, normal skin is characterized by a smooth, even tone and usually blemish free. It also tolerates most skin care lotions and creams. A regular skin care regimen combined with a balanced diet is often enough to maintain healthy, youthful skin.

Dry Skin Types
People with dry skin lack natural moisture. Dry skin may flake during the winter months, and chapping or cracking may occur when skin is extremely dry or dehydrated. Applying gentle moisturizer throughout the day and drinking plenty of water can help relieve dryness and also fight against premature aging. Avoid overexposure to the sun, harsh winds and smoking which can aggravate dry skin.

Oily Skin Types
If you have oily skin, you may be more prone to acne due to excessive oil secretions (sebum) on the face. Oily skin may appear greasy, and is commonly seen among adolescents due to hormonal changes which increase production of sebum. To manage oily skin, use cosmetics sparingly and only apply oil-free products when possible. Wash skin once or twice a day, avoid lotions and creams and always remove makeup before going to bed.

Combination Skin Types
Combination skin is a blend of both dry and oily skin, most often characterized by an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and a dry neck and cheeks. Different parts of the face may require slightly different care. Applying a toner or anti-acne product on the T-zone to remove residual oils and impurities may be helpful in managing oily skin, while a mild moisturizer may be needed for the cheeks.

Having trouble determining your skin type? Visit your dermatologist for expert skin care advice and a personalized treatment plan for every type of skin. The state of our skin is affected by nutrition, general and emotional health, exercise and genes. How well you care for your skin will play an important role in achieving your healthy glow.